JoDaviess County: Aerial Spraying of Honeysuckle

Brad Petersburg named his 100-acre farm "Spirit Rock" at purchase ten years ago.  At equal parts cropland and woodland and pasture, the farm's woodland runs along a ridgetop west of South Rodden Road in Jo Daviess County.  Bush honeysuckle has invaded and after attempts at mechanical eradication had failed, last fall Brad tried aerial spraying of the herbicide glyphosate following consultation with IDNR and professional forester.  Timing was tricky to wait for oak dormancy yet strike honeysuckle while its leaves were still green.

NIFA will tour Brad's woodland on Saturday, June 16th at 1 pm.  Consulting forester Kevin Oetken will be present to discuss effects of the spraying and his experience with other spraying projects.  In addition, Brad has reached out to the IDNR for representation and hopes to have a someone to discuss the land's geology.

Brad describes the woodland: "The woodland is mixed aged with a mixture of hardwoods and less desirable trees.  I have performed some crop tree release on the property but would not describe it as well-managed from a woodland perspective.  I have tried planting some small oak seedlings but the deer have essentially eaten all of them.  I have tried other methods of controlling honeysuckle (i.e., pulling out by the root and cut-stump treatment) but the honeysuckle has grown back worse than ever."

Directions: From Elizabeth, drive 5 miles west on US 20, then turn south on South Rodden Road.  About 1.5 miles south, the woodland occupies 1/3 of a 100-acre farm on the west side of the road; look for a sign.  Park on the west side of the road or in the grassy area adjacent.  There will be a good 1/4 mile hike to the woodland.  Wear boots and bring bug spray.

This tour is open to the public; all are welcome.